I am extremely glad to see you on this Naw-Ruz occasion.
This day is the anniversary of many historical events, among them the
victory of the Persians over the Arabs who invaded Persia and
were
successfully repulsed.
This day in Persia inaugurates a feast which
continues for thirteen days and in which all take part, rich and poor alike. They
adorn themselves with new clothes and their houses are open to all. Money is
distributed, music is played and the houses are decorated with flowers, for it
is a fete; work is put aside and enjoyment invited. Travelers in Persia feel
this transformation, for the country is in a state of complete renewal. A town
which seemed dead yesterday comes to life today. People who looked anxious
yesterday, today have faces shining with gladness. The poor man of yesterday,
with sordid garments, is well dressed today and the whole national life is
infused with joy. From time immemorial this day has been consecrated,
for in this there is a symbol.
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, from a talk in Paris, March 21,
1913; ‘Divine Philosophy’)
